US Tariffs on Heavy Truck Imports to Begin Nov. 1, Says Trump

Core Points - President Trump announced a 25% tariff on medium- and heavy-duty trucks starting November 1, 2025, as part of a strategy to protect domestic industries [1][2] - The tariff is linked to a Commerce Department investigation into heavy truck imports, which found that a small number of foreign suppliers dominate the market due to predatory trade practices [2][3] - The new duties could increase vehicle prices across various sectors, including shipping and construction, which are already affected by existing tariffs on steel and aluminum [3] Industry Impact - Approximately 245,000 medium- and heavy-duty trucks were imported to the US last year, representing a trade value exceeding $20 billion [5] - Companies like Daimler Truck Holding AG, Volvo Group, and Paccar Inc. may face significant impacts, with International Motors LLC relying heavily on imports, sourcing about 98% of its trucks from Mexico [6] - The tariffs are part of a broader trend of industry-specific tariffs imposed by the Trump administration, which has already targeted steel, aluminum, and automobiles [7] Political and Economic Context - Proponents argue that the tariffs will bolster domestic manufacturing and protect American workers from unfair foreign competition [5] - Ongoing Section 232 investigations into various industries, including solar panels and semiconductors, indicate a continued focus on protecting domestic markets [8]